ROCKLEDGE, FL - Health First announced today that the Cancer Programs for its three hospitals - Cape Canaveral Hospital, Holmes Regional Medical Center, and Palm Bay Hospital - have earned the highest national Cancer Registry award from the statewide population-based cancer surveillance system - Florida Cancer Data System (FCDS).

The Jean Byers Memorial Award for Excellence in Cancer Registration honors Florida cancer registries that exhibit outstanding leadership and dedication to the field of cancer registration.

"A big part of what we do at Health First is focused on improving the health of everyone right here in Brevard County. As a long-standing, local member of the community, it's important that we help to keep track of what affects the health of our patients and neighbors," said Elliot Cohen, spokesman for Health First. "This award is just the latest example of how we're serving Brevard County in more ways than just treating the patients who walk in our doors."

The award is named for Jean Byers, who passed away in 1996 following a long career dedicated to promoting a healthier community through research and education in Florida.